FORMER Birmingham City player Fabrice Muamba is said to be fighting for his life after collapsing during Tottenham's FA Cup quarter-final against Bolton at White Hart Lane.

The game was brought to a halt by referee Howard Webb just before half-time after the 23-year-old Bolton midfielder suddenly collapsed near the halfway line. After six minutes of Muamba receiving treatment, the player was stretchered from the field and the game was called off.

Amid worrying scenes, six paramedics raced across the pitch and appeared to try to resuscitate the former England Under-21 international.

Bolton boss Owen Coyle also joined the paramedics as they tended to Muamba while players from both sides looked visibly upset as the midfielder received treatment. A defibrillator was used to try and resuscitate him.

England international Jack Wilshere, who played with Muamba at Bolton, said: "Hope Muamba is okay. Thoughts with him."

Muamba joined Birmingham City on loan from Arsenal in July 2006. He made 30 league starts before joining permanently in May 2007 for £4 million. He made 37 league appearances the following season, scoring twice, before moving to Bolton in June 2008 for £5 million.